Kentucky Labor Cabinet begins Construction Fall Prevention Campaign

Frankfort, KY (WorkersCompensation.com) – Accidental falls are the No. 1 cause of work-related deaths in construction and a leading cause of injuries in the United States. To keep workers safe, the Kentucky Labor Cabinet is joining a campaign to increase awareness of hazards among construction-industry employers and employees. 

 In Kentucky, 46 percent of fatalities among Kentucky construction workers between 2007 and 2011 were the result of falls, according to Labor Cabinet Secretary Larry Roberts. “Kentucky, unfortunately, had 3 workers killed in 2012 due to a fall,” Secretary Roberts said. “It's important that we get the message out to our construction workers that there are safety guidelines that should be followed to prevent accidents. 

 “These safety measures cover everything from the appropriate use of ladders, and hazards associated with aerial lifts, roofs and scaffolds. The Labor Cabinet is committed to ensuring that contractors and workers stay safe on the job by providing the knowledge and tools they need,” said Secretary Roberts. 

 The Labor Cabinet is partnering with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, which launched its campaign earlier this year, and the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration. In addition, the Center for Construction Research and Training manages a website – www.stopconstructionfalls.com – that provides additional resources and information on ways to participate in the campaign. 

 Staff from the Labor Cabinet will distribute safety posters to construction industry associations, home improvement stores and other locations across the state. Labor staff also will work to educate employees on job sites. The cabinet's eLearning website provides an online safety class called, “Introduction to Fall Protection,” that details fall trigger heights, general fall protection guidelines, basic fall protection measures and training requirements. 

 “I encourage workers to run through this free training program that we offer on our website,” said Secretary Roberts. “It doesn't take a lot of time and it could be the best use of your time all day.” 

 The eLearning website can be found at http://www.laborcabinetetrain.ky.gov/. The Stop Construction Falls Campaign maintains a Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/StopConstruction-Falls/215070198597124.

Share This Article: